The Best Day Trips To Take From London This Summer
With summer now in full swing, there’s no better time to plan a spontaneous escape from the city. Whether you’re a student spending the summer in the capital, staying in accommodation, interning, or enjoying some well-earned downtime, or simply someone looking to unwind with friends or family, day trips offer the perfect way to make the most of the warmer weather without the hassle of planning a full holiday.
Image Photo by Young Jeffrey on Unsplash
To help those in the capital and surrounding areas make the most of the season, with its prime location next to London Bridge station, Chapter London Bridge, operated by Greystar, has analysed some of the UK’s most popular day trip destinations. Using key metrics such as return train fare (with and without a Railcard), travel time, number of attractions and restaurants, plus Instagram hashtag volume to reflect aesthetic appeal, the research reveals the top 10 destinations perfect for a memorable summer day out from London.
Brighton secures the top spot as the ultimate day trip from London with a total score of 8.51/10
With a manageable travel time of just over two hours south from London Bridge station and a solid range of attractions (683) and dining spots (925), it’s an unbeatable choice for those craving sea air, quirky charm, and plenty to see and do. Beyond the numbers, Brighton is bursting with character. Visitors can stroll along the famous pebbled beach, enjoy a classic fish and chips by the pier, or explore the shops and indie cafes tucked away in The Lanes. For a bit of history and architecture, the Royal Pavilion adds an exotic twist to the seaside setting, while street performers and striking graffiti art keep things vibrant.
Maidstone takes second place with an overall day trip score of 6.57/10
With a travel time of 1 hour and 45 minutes from London’s main train stations and a relatively low ticket price, especially with a railcard, it’s one of the more budget-friendly day trips on the list. But affordability isn’t its only selling point. The town, located southwest of London, offers access to one of England’s most iconic landmarks, Leeds Castle, known for its fairytale setting and beautiful grounds. Mote Park, right in the heart of Maidstone, is ideal for a laid-back walk or picnic, and the town’s riverside pubs and local eateries provide a cosy spot to unwind. It’s the kind of destination perfect for couples, students or families looking to escape the city for a dose of greenery and heritage.
Southend-on-Sea rounds off the top three for the best destinations for a day trip from London, with an overall score of 6.39/10
For those craving traditional seaside fun, Southend-on-Sea delivers a truly British day out. While it has a slightly longer train time than Brighton (2h 45 minutes), it remains a popular choice for its coastal atmosphere. Southend boasts the world’s longest pier, which is perfect for a long walk with sea views or a quick ride on the pier train. The town offers amusement arcades, beaches for paddling, and a range of family-friendly attractions that make it ideal for group trips or spontaneous getaways. With plenty of spots to grab a bite (590) and a solid number of photo-worthy moments (457,000 Instagram hashtags), this Essex seaside town combines fun, food and fresh air in one easy journey from London.
Tom Starling, Regional Operations Manager at Greystar, comments: “Living in London offers students so much more than just proximity to their university, it’s a gateway to the rest of the UK. With world-class transport links and countless incredible destinations just a short train ride away, the capital is the perfect base for exploring everything the country has to offer.
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“Chapter’s newest addition is ideally located right by London Bridge station, placing students at the heart of the action. We’re proud to support them not just in their academic journey, but in making the most of their time here, whether that’s discovering new cities, connecting with friends, or creating lasting memories. We’re now accepting bookings, and can’t wait to welcome new residents for the upcoming academic year.”
• These top destinations for a day trip from London were revealed by Student accommodation provider Chapter
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